Ten Chinese nationals were arrested by the Philippine National Police following coordinated law enforcement operations that uncovered a large-scale illegal cigarette manufacturing operation in Negros Occidental on April 21, 2026.
According to the PNP, the operation was carried out in Bago City and Bacolod City, where authorities discovered two production sites believed to be involved in the illegal manufacturing of cigarettes.
Authorities estimated the total value of confiscated equipment, raw materials and finished cigarette products at ₱799,151,453.54. The seized items included machinery and supplies used in the production of cigarettes.
During the operation, authorities also rescued 15 individuals, including Filipino workers and one minor. The rescued individuals are currently under protective custody of authorities.
The 10 arrested foreign nationals were brought to the custody of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Region 6 for further investigation.
Based on initial findings, authorities said the facility was reportedly operating under the guise of a legitimate trading compound. However, investigators suspect the compound was being used as a front for illegal cigarette manufacturing activities.
Police said local workers were allegedly employed at the site under the supervision of foreign nationals linked to the operation.
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing to determine the full extent of the operation and identify other individuals who may be involved.
Officials also said appropriate charges are being prepared against those implicated in the illegal cigarette manufacturing activities discovered during the coordinated raids in Negros Occidental.
